Which design feature helps prevent wing twist at high speeds?

• A. Inboard and outboard ailerons
• B. Only inboard ailerons
• C. Flaps
• D. Elevators

Answer: (A)

Wing twist at high speeds happens because changing lift on part of the wing creates torsional moments that can warp the wing structure. Having both inboard and outboard ailerons lets the roll moment be distributed across two wing panels rather than concentrated on one surface. This allows the lift changes to be coordinated in a way that reduces the net twisting force on the wing: the inner panel, closer to the wing root, contributes with strong stiffness, while the outer panel adds roll authority without causing excessive torsion on a single surface. Flaps affect lift for takeoff/landing and adjust camber, and elevators control pitch, so they don’t specifically address wing twist during high-speed roll. Using two aileron panels provides better management of aeroelastic twist, making it the best design feature for preventing wing twist at high speeds.